Massage therapy involves manipulation of soft tissues to decrease muscle tension, stress and depression. Practitioners utilize knowledge of physiology, pathology, and anatomy to address conditions that go beyond simply soothing muscle pain and aches.
The therapeutic benefits to mind, spirit and body also include reduced blood pressure, stimulation of the skin, improved mood, enhanced job performance and improved nervous system functioning.
Despite the benefits, no one wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a mediocre experience. Client expectations are on the rise due to increased competition. That’s why therapists need to provide clients the best experience in each session to increase customer loyalty and personal reputation.
Due to massage being a physical and emotional experience, therapists need to have an efficient set of social, personal and professional skills. Here are a few suggestions to achieve better results and improve your professional rapport with clients.
Focus on the client
For physiotherapy, enable the client to understand the techniques you will be using and how they are meant to help. Start slowly and find the points where their body stores pent up stress, usually in the back, neck, and shoulders.
See how a client reacts to different techniques and adjust them accordingly (you want to use the technique the client is most comfortable with). Keep conversation to a level that doesn’t annoy or distract clients. Not everyone comes in to talk about how their day went by. Strike the right balance between client-therapist interactions by getting to know your clients.
Natural Oils
Even if you’re using the right techniques, not using the right oil can degrade the massage experience. Crèmes, oils and lotions are all crucial elements of a massage experience. A naturally-derived oil for massage instead of common oils can add depth to your massage session. Oils that are derived from natural resources, such as safflowers and avocados, will make sure your clients never feel uncomfortable friction on the skin.
Having a variety of oils at your disposal will give your clients the opportunity to experience different lubricated sensations during their sessions. Nut free massage oils are an allergy-free substitution if you don’t want to use traditional nut oils. Using oils with soothing scents will enable your clients to relax during their sessions; the enhanced experience often translates into repeat business.
Relaxing Environment
One of the most important things to consider when it comes providing the best massage experience is the environment. Make sure your workplace has a soothing ambiance to it and there are no external disturbances. Try lighting scented candles to include some aromatherapy in your sessions. This will help your client relax even more (soothing music will help them unwind from the day’s stress).
Proper lighting is also important as some clients may prefer a bright environment while others may find their comfort zone in a balanced environment. Bright lights can impact the eyes, making it difficult for a client to relax, while too mark darkness can make the client uncomfortable.
Install lights with a dimmer or rely on ancillary lighting options for maximum control. Screens or draperies will enable you to make adjustments if the session is in a room where lights can’t be directly adjusted.
By focusing on the client, changing technique as required, using natural oils, and providing a relaxed environment, you will be able to achieve better results in each session while your business benefits from client loyalty and referrals.
